Helping writers reach the finish line
EDITORIAL
LAST LAP
MOVING FORWARD
In my years as a high school and collegiate distance runner, the last lap meant the finish line was close and the race would be done soon. Sometimes it might feel like you are in the middle of a marathon with your manuscript, with no end in sight. But Last Lap Editorial is here to encourage you that the end might not be far away.
Whether you enter the last lap of your manuscript with endless energy, or you are barely putting one foot ahead of the other, I can help you reach the finish line. From copy editing to proofreading, Last Lap Editorial can spruce up your manuscript so you can put your best foot forward.
For some, the finish line may be publication. For others, the goal may simply be personal fulfillment or writing for particular people in their lives. Either way, let’s run that last lap together!
PHIL JENSEN
PLANNING YOUR STEPS
I specialize in nonfiction editing, though I am open to the occasional fiction manuscript.
Copy Editing
Copy editing makes your manuscript trim and muscular by correcting punctuation, usage, grammar, and syntax according to The Chicago Manual of Style or The Associated Press Stylebook. I also offer line editing for a more in-depth edit that looks at a line’s clarity, precision, and accuracy. Both types of editing help you kick strongly to the finish line.
Rate: 2-3 cents/word
Beta Reading
Before editing, you may like me to simply read the manuscript and provide feedback. Beta reading does not take the place of editing; however, a beta reader can point out errors, holes in the writing, inconsistencies, or unclear passages. I can also serve as a test audience.
Rate: 1 cent/word
Proofreading
This follows all other editing, including copy editing. I will examine the manuscript for typographical errors, misused words, grammatical problems, punctuation mistakes, and more.
Rate: 1.5 cents/word
Writing
I specialize in sports writing, but I am also available for faith-based writing and other projects. I am proficient in quick and accurate writing from my 25-plus years as a newspaper writer.
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Rate: Contact for Quote
MEET PHIL
I might have been born to be an editor. There are photos that show me poring over books as a preschooler, and in elementary school, I was regularly one of the best spellers in my class. When it came to choosing a major in college, English was an obvious choice for me.
My love of the written word led me to a long career as a newspaper sportswriter, and that’s where I was introduced to copy editing. When I wasn’t writing, I would occasionally have copy editing shifts, and my fascination with grammar, sentence structure, and style continued. That passion has led to the launch of Last Lap Editorial Services.
I am a Christ-follower, husband, writer, and sports fanatic. Thank you for your interest in me and my work. Maybe someday I will get to meet you through your manuscript, or better yet, in-person!
